SUMMARY
Voyager 2 is projected to pass by Sirius in approximately 300,000 years while simultaneously orbiting the Milky Way for billions of years. The discussion clarifies that Voyager 2's trajectory is influenced by the relative motions of celestial bodies, including the Sun and Sirius, which also orbits the galactic center. The negligible speed of Voyager 2 relative to the Sun emphasizes that all these objects share similar orbital paths around the Milky Way, akin to a cyclist passing through a city while still being part of a larger journey.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of celestial mechanics
- Familiarity with the Milky Way's structure
- Knowledge of orbital dynamics
- Basic concepts of relative motion in astrophysics
NEXT STEPS
- Research the trajectory and future path of Voyager 2
- Learn about the orbital characteristics of Sirius
- Study the dynamics of the Milky Way galaxy
- Explore the concept of relative motion in astrophysics
USEFUL FOR
Astronomy enthusiasts, astrophysicists, and anyone interested in the long-term trajectories of spacecraft and celestial bodies within the Milky Way galaxy.